The Official Blog of the Baseball Hall of Fame

Pettitte sends some history to Hall of Fame

NEW YORK – Andy Pettitte’s celebration lasted only a few minutes in the crowded Yankees’ clubhouse. After that, the record-setting left-hander sought refuge in the training room.

For Pettitte, it has always been about the final outcome rather than the stops along the way.

But whatever the result of the World Series, the memories of Game 6 of the 2009 American League Championship Series will never fade – thanks to Pettitte’s generosity and the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

Pettitte donated his No. 46 jersey to the Hall of Fame following his Oct. 25 victory against the Angels in Game 6 of the ALCS. The win gave Pettitte 16 postseason victories, breaking a tie with John Smoltz for the most all-time.

With the win, Pettitte cemented his place as one of the best postseason pitchers ever. Though he has pitched his entire career in the three-round playoff era, it is impossible to minimize his 16-9 postseason record (prior to this year’s World Series), his 38 postseason starts or his 237.1 postseason innings – all of which are records.

When this era of Yankees’ success is viewed through the prism of history, Pettitte will stand out. His focus in big games has left Yankees fans covered in glory for parts of two decades.

Now, that history will be preserved forever in Cooperstown.

Craig Muder is the director of communications for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.

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